15+ Best Upcoming 2026 Games: Complete Preview
What are the most anticipated games coming in 2025? The remainder of 2025 is packed with incredible releases including Ghost of Yotei, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, promising an exceptional year for gamers across all platforms.
As someone who’s been gaming for over two decades, I can confidently say that the second half of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting periods in gaming history. After spending countless hours researching upcoming releases, analyzing gameplay trailers, and following developer updates, I’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you prepare your gaming calendar and budget for the incredible titles ahead. If you’re curious about games with massive development budgets, many of these titles represent significant investments from major studios.
| Release Window | Major Releases | Platform Focus |
|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | Hollow Knight: Silksong, MGS Delta | Multi-platform |
| October 2025 | Ghost of Yotei | PlayStation Exclusive |
| Q4 2025 | Metroid Prime 4, Pokemon Z-A | Nintendo Exclusives |
| 2025 TBA | Fable, Death Stranding 2 | Console Focused |
Major AAA Blockbusters Leading the Charge
Ghost of Yotei – October 2, 2025 (PlayStation 5 Exclusive)
I’ve been eagerly anticipating Ghost of Yotei ever since Sucker Punch Productions revealed this sequel to Ghost of Tsushima. As someone who spent over 100 hours in feudal Japan with Jin Sakai, the shift to a new protagonist and the year 1603 has me incredibly excited. The game introduces Atsu, a female warrior navigating the beginning of the Edo period, and from what I’ve seen in the gameplay reveals, the combat system has evolved significantly.
What makes Ghost of Yotei particularly special is its focus on Mount Yōtei and the surrounding regions of northern Japan. The developers have confirmed that the world will be even larger than the original, with new traversal mechanics including what appears to be a grappling hook system. I’m especially intrigued by the seasonal weather system that will affect both combat and exploration – imagine fighting bandits in a blizzard where visibility is limited, forcing you to rely more on audio cues and strategic positioning. For those interested in similar open-world adventures, check out our guide to upcoming games like Zelda.
The PlayStation 5’s hardware capabilities are being pushed to their limits here. The haptic feedback integration promises to make every sword strike feel distinct, while the 3D audio will create an immersive soundscape that helps you detect enemies before they strike. For those considering major PS5 releases this year, Ghost of Yotei stands as the platform’s crown jewel for 2025.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows – March 20, 2025
After years of waiting, Ubisoft is finally delivering the feudal Japan Assassin’s Creed game we’ve all been dreaming about. I’ve been following every update since the initial reveal, and Assassin’s Creed Shadows looks to be the most ambitious entry in the franchise yet. The dual protagonist system featuring Naoe, a shinobi assassin, and Yasuke, the legendary African samurai, offers two completely different gameplay styles that I can’t wait to master.
From my analysis of the gameplay footage, Naoe’s sections emphasize traditional Assassin’s Creed stealth mechanics with new additions like prone movement, shadow manipulation, and the ability to extinguish light sources. Meanwhile, Yasuke’s combat-focused approach brings a more direct, samurai-inspired fighting system that reminds me of the best parts of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla but with significantly more depth. The ability to switch between these characters for different mission approaches adds a strategic layer that the series has been missing.
The game’s recreation of 16th century Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period is breathtaking. Having spent time with previous AC games, I’m particularly excited about the new building infiltration systems – you can now destroy shoji doors, hide in ceiling spaces, and use the environment in ways that weren’t possible before. The seasonal system, where the world changes through spring, summer, fall, and winter, will affect not just visuals but gameplay mechanics like guard patterns and available hiding spots.
Doom: The Dark Ages – May 15, 2025
As a longtime Doom fan who’s ripped and torn through every game since the original in 1993, Doom: The Dark Ages represents a fascinating evolution for the franchise. This prequel to Doom (2016) takes us back to the origins of the Doom Slayer, and from what id Software has shown, they’re not just giving us more of the same – they’re reimagining the entire combat flow.
The shield-saw mechanic is absolutely game-changing. In my decades of playing Doom, I’ve always been about aggressive offense, but The Dark Ages introduces a parry system that turns defense into offense. You can catch projectiles with your shield and launch them back at enemies, creating a rhythm-based combat flow that feels fresh while maintaining that signature Doom intensity. The addition of the dragon mount for aerial combat sections promises to add variety to the traditional corridor-and-arena structure.
What really excites me is the medieval aesthetic merged with Doom’s sci-fi elements. The developers have described it as “Doom meets medieval fantasy,” and from the gameplay I’ve analyzed, we’re getting massive mechs, demonic dragons, and siege warfare on a scale the series has never attempted. The new Glory Kill system is more brutal than ever, with context-sensitive executions that use the environment – imagine throwing a demon into a medieval torture device for a Glory Kill. This is shaping up to be one of the successful games of 2025.
Highly Anticipated Sequels and Returns
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – 2025 (Nintendo Switch/Switch 2)
I’ve been waiting for Metroid Prime 4 for so long that it almost feels surreal to finally have gameplay footage. After the development restart in 2019, Retro Studios has crafted what looks to be the definitive Metroid Prime experience. Having played through the entire Prime trilogy multiple times, I can confidently say that Beyond appears to blend the best elements of all three games while introducing innovative mechanics that push the series forward.
The visual fidelity shown in the Nintendo Direct presentations is remarkable, especially considering the Switch hardware limitations. The game features expansive alien environments with a level of detail that rivals current-gen titles on more powerful consoles. The scanning mechanic has been enhanced with what appears to be real-time environmental storytelling – scanning reveals not just lore but actively changes how you interact with the world, opening new paths and revealing enemy weaknesses in more dynamic ways.
What has me most excited is the promise of seamless transitions between areas without loading screens, creating a more cohesive world that encourages exploration. The new mobility options, including what looks like a grappling beam that can be used in combat and traversal, add verticality that the series has always hinted at but never fully realized. For Nintendo fans, this is the system-seller that could define the Switch’s final year – or potentially launch alongside the rumored Switch 2. If you’re looking for more variety, consider exploring upcoming survival games with crafting for different gameplay experiences.
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach – 2025 (PlayStation 5)
Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding was one of the most divisive games I’ve ever played, and I absolutely loved it. The sequel, On The Beach, looks to address many of the original’s criticisms while doubling down on what made it unique. From the trailers and Kojima’s cryptic social media posts, we’re getting a more action-oriented experience without losing the meditative delivery gameplay that defined the original.
The addition of new traversal tools, including what appears to be a zip-line launcher and enhanced vehicles, suggests that moving through the world will be more dynamic. I’m particularly intrigued by the new combat systems showcased, with Sam Porter Bridges now wielding more conventional weapons alongside the traditional anti-BT equipment. The puppet companion shown in trailers adds an interesting co-op element to what was previously a solitary experience.
Kojima has mentioned that the game will explore themes of connection in a different way, focusing on how humanity rebuilds after catastrophe rather than just surviving it. The cast expansion, including Elle Fanning and Shioli Kutsuna joining Norman Reedus and Léa Seydoux, promises a more ensemble-driven narrative. As someone who spent over 80 hours building roads and bridges in the first game, I can’t wait to see how the asynchronous multiplayer elements evolve in the sequel.
Pokemon Legends: Z-A – 2025 (Nintendo Switch)
Pokemon Legends: Arceus completely revolutionized how I think about Pokemon games, and Pokemon Legends: Z-A looks to build on that foundation in exciting ways. Set entirely within Lumiose City from the Kalos region, this urban-focused adventure represents a dramatic shift from the wide-open ancient Hisui region of Arceus.
The concept of exploring a Pokemon world undergoing urban redevelopment is fascinating. From what Game Freak has revealed, we’ll be experiencing Lumiose City during a period of massive reconstruction, with the gameplay focusing on how Pokemon and humans coexist in an increasingly modernized world. The return of Mega Evolutions, absent from mainline games since Generation 7, has me particularly excited – I spent countless hours perfecting Mega Evolution strategies in X and Y.
What intrigues me most is the promise of verticality in exploration. Lumiose City’s urban environment will apparently feature explorable buildings, underground areas, and rooftop traversal, creating a more three-dimensional world than we’ve seen in previous Pokemon games. The catching and battling mechanics from Legends: Arceus are returning but adapted for urban environments – imagine sneaking up on Pokemon in alleyways or construction sites rather than tall grass. This urban focus contrasts beautifully with the open-world co-op experiences we’re seeing in other 2025 releases.
Exciting Remakes and Reimaginings
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater – August 28, 2025
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is my favorite game in the Metal Gear series, and seeing it remade with modern graphics and gameplay improvements has me counting down the days until August. Having played through the original countless times, I’m fascinated by how Konami is balancing preservation of the original experience with modern enhancements.
The photorealistic graphics powered by Unreal Engine 5 bring the jungle environment to life in ways that weren’t possible on PlayStation 2. The survival mechanics – hunting for food, treating injuries, using camouflage – have been refined with a more intuitive interface while maintaining the tactical depth that made the original special. I’m particularly excited about the modernized control scheme option, which addresses one of the few criticisms of the original while keeping the classic controls available for purists like myself.
The addition of new dialogue recordings and expanded codec conversations promises to add depth to an already rich narrative. Konami has confirmed that the game will feature both the original soundtrack and a re-recorded version, allowing players to choose their preferred audio experience. As someone who considers Snake Eater’s ladder climb scene one of gaming’s greatest moments, I can’t wait to experience it with modern presentation.
Civilization VII – Already Released (February 11, 2025)
While Civilization VII already launched earlier this year, it’s worth mentioning for those who haven’t jumped in yet. Having spent over 200 hours with it since February, I can confirm it’s the most innovative entry in the series since Civilization V. The new Ages system, which divides games into Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern ages with civilization evolution between them, completely changes the traditional Civ gameplay loop I’ve known for decades.
The addition of navigable rivers, which I initially thought was a small feature, has completely transformed city planning and military strategy. Being able to move naval units through major rivers creates new strategic opportunities that didn’t exist in previous games. The overhauled diplomacy system, with its influence currency and more nuanced relationship building, finally makes peaceful victories as engaging as military conquest.
Indie Darlings and Surprise Hits
Hollow Knight: Silksong – September 4, 2025
After what feels like an eternity of waiting (and becoming a meme in the process), Hollow Knight: Silksong finally has a release date. As someone who 112% completed the original Hollow Knight, the anticipation for Silksong has been almost unbearable. Playing as Hornet, with her acrobatic moveset and thread-based abilities, promises a faster, more aggressive playstyle than the Knight’s methodical approach.
Team Cherry has revealed that Silksong features over 150 new enemies and reimagined the healing system to encourage the aggressive playstyle that Hornet’s abilities enable. Instead of focusing on soul collection like the original, Hornet uses silk for both healing and special attacks, creating interesting resource management decisions during combat. The new quest system, where you can hunt specific creatures for rewards, adds structure for players who found the original too directionless.
What excites me most is the expanded crafting system. Throughout my journey in Hallownest, I often wished for more customization options, and Silksong delivers with tools that can be modified with different materials found throughout the world. The game world is reportedly larger than the original, with more varied environments ranging from coral forests to gilded cities, each with unique movement challenges designed around Hornet’s abilities.
Slay the Spire 2 – 2025
The original Slay the Spire consumed hundreds of hours of my life and essentially created the roguelike deckbuilder genre. The sequel isn’t just more of the same – it’s a complete reimagining of the formula with multiplayer functionality that I never knew I wanted. The ability to play cooperatively with friends, building synergistic decks that complement each other, adds a social element to what was previously a solitary experience.
The new character roster expands beyond the original four, with each featuring completely unique mechanics rather than variations on existing archetypes. The addition of persistent progression between runs, where you can unlock new starting conditions and modify the spire itself, addresses one of my few complaints about the original’s pure run-based structure. The developers have also promised mod support from day one, which should ensure longevity given how vibrant the original’s modding community remains.
Platform Exclusives and System Sellers
Fable – 2025 (Xbox Series X/S, PC)
Playground Games taking on Fable feels like a perfect match, and everything I’ve seen suggests they understand what made the original trilogy special while modernizing it for contemporary audiences. Having played every Fable game including the oft-forgotten Fable: The Journey, I’m thrilled to see the series return to its British humor roots while embracing modern open-world design.
The reactive world system, where your actions have lasting consequences on the environment and NPCs, appears more sophisticated than anything the original games attempted. The developers have shown examples of entire regions changing based on player choices – save a village from bandits and watch it flourish into a trading hub, or ignore their plight and return to find ruins. This dynamic world evolution was always Fable’s promise, and modern technology finally allows it to be fully realized.
Combat looks to blend magic, melee, and ranged attacks more fluidly than previous entries. The removal of the traditional experience orbs in favor of a more integrated progression system should make character development feel more natural. As someone who always struggled with Fable’s moral choice system feeling too binary, I’m encouraged by promises of more nuanced decision-making that doesn’t just boil down to “good” or “evil.”
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 – Late 2025
After numerous delays and a developer change, Bloodlines 2 finally seems to be on track for release. As someone who still regularly replays the original with community patches, my excitement is tempered with cautious optimism. The Chinese Room taking over development from Hardsuit Labs initially worried me, but the recent gameplay reveals have restored my faith in the project.
The game’s Seattle setting during a vampire civil war provides the perfect backdrop for the political intrigue that makes Vampire: The Masquerade special. The ability to join different vampire clans, each with unique disciplines and playstyles, ensures replay value that matches the original. I’m particularly intrigued by the resonance system, where feeding on humans with different emotional states provides different buffs, adding strategy to what was previously just a health mechanic.
The emphasis on player choice affecting not just story outcomes but how you approach missions has me excited. The developers have confirmed that entire questlines can be missed based on your clan choice and actions, encouraging multiple playthroughs to see everything. The modernized combat system, which blends supernatural abilities with conventional weapons, looks far more polished than the admittedly janky original. For those seeking different types of unique gameplay, check out our coverage of games with experimental mechanics.
Rising Stars and Dark Horses
Mafia: The Old Country – Summer 2025
Returning to the Mafia series’ roots with a 1900s Sicily setting is exactly what this franchise needs. After the mixed reception of Mafia III (though I personally enjoyed its narrative), Hangar 13 is going back to basics with a more focused, linear experience reminiscent of the beloved original. Having played every game in the series, the promise of experiencing the origins of organized crime in Sicily has me genuinely excited.
The developers have emphasized authenticity, with period-appropriate weapons, vehicles, and even dialogue in Sicilian dialect with subtitles. The combat system is being designed around the limitations of early 20th-century firearms, making each shootout more tactical and deliberate than modern-set games. I’m particularly interested in the honor system, where your reputation affects how both criminals and civilians interact with you throughout the story.
Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra – 2025
Amy Hennig’s return to narrative-driven action games with a Marvel property set during World War II is one of 2025’s most intriguing prospects. Playing as both Captain America and Black Panther (T’Challa’s grandfather, Azzuri) in occupied Paris promises a unique take on both characters. Having followed Hennig’s work since Legacy of Kain, I trust her to deliver a story that transcends typical superhero game narratives.
The gameplay appears to blend stealth, combat, and traversal in ways that play to each character’s strengths. Captain America’s shield combat looks more sophisticated than previous iterations, with the ability to ricochet throws off multiple surfaces to hit enemies behind cover. Meanwhile, Black Panther’s sections emphasize stealth and agility, with vibranium claws allowing for vertical traversal and silent takedowns.
Silent Hill f – 2025
Set in 1960s Japan, Silent Hill f represents the boldest departure for the franchise since Silent Hill 4: The Room. As someone who’s played every Silent Hill game (even the controversial later entries), the shift from American settings to rural Japan, combined with writer Ryukishi07’s involvement, has me incredibly intrigued. The focus on Japanese folklore and spirituality could provide fresh horror perspectives the series desperately needs.
The “Shinto-inspired” horror elements shown in trailers, including the mysterious red flowers and traditional Japanese architectural settings, create an atmosphere distinct from the series’ typical rust-and-fog aesthetic. The protagonist, a young Japanese woman, marks another departure from the series’ usual character archetypes. Ryukishi07’s track record with psychological horror in visual novels like Higurashi suggests we’re in for a narrative that will mess with our perceptions of reality.
Community Reactions and Hype Levels
Following gaming communities across Reddit, Discord, and various forums, I’ve noticed fascinating patterns in anticipation levels for these releases. Hollow Knight: Silksong has transcended normal hype to become almost mythical in status – the community’s patience has been rewarded with what looks to be a worthy successor. The Ghost of Yotei reveal generated massive excitement among PlayStation fans, particularly those who, like me, considered Ghost of Tsushima one of the PS4’s best exclusives.
The response to Doom: The Dark Ages has been overwhelmingly positive, with longtime fans appreciating the gameplay evolution while maintaining the series’ core identity. However, I’ve noticed some skepticism around Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 given its troubled development history, though recent previews have started turning opinion around. Speaking of community excitement, many of these titles are generating as much buzz as upcoming open-world games we’ve been anticipating.
What’s particularly interesting is the universal excitement for Metroid Prime 4, crossing typical console warrior boundaries. Even as someone who primarily games on PC and PlayStation, I’m considering buying a Switch just for this title. The Pokemon Legends: Z-A announcement has reinvigorated a community that was feeling fatigued after several controversial releases, with the return to the Legends format and Mega Evolutions generating significant buzz.
Platform Considerations and Pre-Order Strategy
As we approach these releases, platform choice becomes crucial for multi-platform titles. Based on my experience and technical analysis, here’s my recommendation for where to play these games:
For Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Doom: The Dark Ages, PC remains the optimal choice if you have the hardware. The ability to play at higher frame rates and resolutions, plus likely mod support, makes the PC versions definitive. However, the PlayStation 5 versions will offer excellent experiences with the added benefit of DualSense haptic feedback, which Ubisoft and id Software are specifically optimizing for.
Regarding pre-orders, I generally advise waiting for reviews, but there are exceptions. Games from proven studios with extensive gameplay footage shown, like Ghost of Yotei and Metroid Prime 4, are safer bets. For titles with troubled development histories like Bloodlines 2, waiting for launch reviews is prudent. Early access periods for games like Hollow Knight: Silksong might be worth considering for dedicated fans, as Team Cherry has an impeccable track record.
Don’t forget about Xbox Game Pass games, as several of these titles, including Doom: The Dark Ages and Fable, will be available day one on the service. This makes Game Pass an exceptional value for those looking to play multiple major releases without individual purchases.
Technical Requirements and Performance Expectations
For PC gamers, the system requirements for 2025’s biggest games reflect the generational leap we’re experiencing. Doom: The Dark Ages, running on the latest id Tech engine, will likely require an RTX 3070 or equivalent for optimal 1440p performance. Assassin’s Creed Shadows, traditionally demanding on PC, will probably need similar specifications, though Ubisoft usually provides extensive graphical options for lower-end systems.
Console players can expect most games to offer performance and quality modes. Based on recent trends, performance modes will target 60fps at dynamic 4K, while quality modes will push for native 4K at 30fps with enhanced visual features. The PlayStation 5’s superior SSD might provide advantages in games like Ghost of Yotei with faster loading and potentially exclusive traversal mechanics.
For Switch owners, the rumors of a Switch 2 launch in 2025 become relevant. Games like Metroid Prime 4 and Pokemon Legends: Z-A will likely be enhanced for the new hardware if it releases, similar to how Breath of the Wild launched on both Wii U and Switch. If you’re a Nintendo fan, it might be worth waiting for potential hardware announcements before investing in these titles.
Content Expectations and Post-Launch Support
Modern games rarely end at launch, and 2025’s releases will follow this trend. Assassin’s Creed Shadows has already announced its season pass, which will include additional storylines and possibly new regions to explore. Based on Ubisoft’s track record with Valhalla and Odyssey, expect at least two years of substantial content updates.
Ghost of Yotei will likely follow Tsushima’s model with a free multiplayer mode released later, possibly “Ghost of Yotei: Legends.” The original’s Legends mode was one of gaming’s pleasant surprises, offering a complete cooperative experience at no additional cost, and I expect Sucker Punch to expand on this generosity.
For live service elements, games like Doom: The Dark Ages might include a multiplayer component, though id Software has been cagey about confirming this. The focus appears to be on the single-player campaign, which is refreshing in an era of forced multiplayer additions. Similarly, Fable seems to be a purely single-player experience, though Playground Games’ expertise with Forza Horizon’s online features could suggest otherwise.
The Impact on Gaming in 2025 and Beyond
These 2025 releases represent significant moments for their respective franchises and gaming as a whole. Ghost of Yotei and Assassin’s Creed Shadows releasing months apart with similar settings will create inevitable comparisons, potentially pushing both to excel. The success or failure of long-delayed titles like Metroid Prime 4 and Bloodlines 2 will influence how publishers approach extended development cycles.
The variety of genres represented – from action-adventure to strategy, from horror to platformers – demonstrates gaming’s maturation as a medium. We’re seeing fewer trend-chasing releases and more confident, unique experiences. The success of patient development, as demonstrated by Hollow Knight: Silksong and Metroid Prime 4, might encourage publishers to prioritize quality over quick releases.
The emphasis on single-player experiences in many of these titles also reflects a market correction from the live service gold rush. Players have shown they’re willing to pay full price for complete, narrative-driven experiences, and 2025’s lineup suggests publishers are listening.
My Personal Most Anticipated Titles
After covering all these incredible games, I should share my personal top five most anticipated releases for the remainder of 2025:
1. Ghost of Yotei – The original was my 2020 game of the year, and everything about the sequel suggests it will surpass its predecessor. The new protagonist, time period, and PlayStation 5 exclusivity promise an experience that will define this console generation.
2. Hollow Knight: Silksong – The wait has been excruciating, but Team Cherry’s commitment to perfection shows in every frame of gameplay revealed. This will be the indie game that dominates conversations in September.
3. Doom: The Dark Ages – id Software revolutionizing Doom’s combat again while maintaining its core identity is exactly what I want from a sequel. The medieval aesthetic combined with the series’ signature brutality creates unique appeal.
4. Assassin’s Creed Shadows – The Japan setting we’ve wanted for years, combined with the dual protagonist system and refined stealth mechanics, could make this the best Assassin’s Creed since Black Flag.
5. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Despite primarily being a PC gamer, I’ll absolutely be getting a Switch for this. The Prime series defined my teenage years, and returning to that universe after so long feels like coming home.
Conclusion: A Gaming Renaissance
The remainder of 2025 represents something special in gaming – a convergence of long-awaited sequels, bold new directions for established franchises, and innovative indie experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the samurai action of Ghost of Yotei, the strategic depth of the already-excellent Civilization VII, or the horror mysteries of Silent Hill f, there’s something for every type of gamer.
What makes this period particularly exciting is the diversity of experiences available. We’re not seeing the usual glut of similar titles trying to capitalize on trends. Instead, each game offers something unique, whether it’s Doom’s medieval reimagining, Pokemon’s urban exploration, or Fable’s reactive world. This variety, combined with the technical capabilities of current hardware, promises experiences that will define gaming for years to come.
For those managing their gaming budgets, consider the cross-platform games that will allow you to play with friends regardless of system choice. Services like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus will also help manage costs while experiencing multiple major releases. Additionally, exploring dynamic open-world games can provide exceptional value with their evolving content systems.
As I prepare my gaming setup for these releases – upgrading my PC’s storage, ensuring my PlayStation 5 has space, and yes, finally buying that Switch – I’m reminded why I fell in love with gaming in the first place. The remainder of 2025 isn’t just offering us games; it’s offering us worlds to explore, stories to experience, and memories to create. Whether you’re a veteran gamer like myself or someone just starting their journey, this is an incredible time to be part of the gaming community. For those looking for simpler entry points, consider checking out our guide to easy-to-master games.
The hype is real, the games are coming, and based on everything I’ve seen, researched, and experienced in my gaming career, we’re about to witness something special. Clear your calendars, prepare your platforms of choice, and get ready for a gaming feast that will keep us satisfied well into 2026 and beyond. These aren’t just the most anticipated games of 2025 – they’re the experiences that will define this generation of gaming.